Trust chief Colm Donaghy quits Belfast for new role in Sussex

Colm Donaghy has been Chief Executive of the Belfast Trust since 2010.

The Chief Executive of the Belfast Trust is to leave for a new role in England, it has been confirmed.

Colm Donaghy has announced he will become Chief Executive of Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, adding that the decision to leave his role in Belfast is not one he “took lightly”.

“Belfast Health and Social Care Trust is a world-class organisation and there is never a good time to go,” he said in a statement released on Tuesday morning. “I have enjoyed my time in Belfast immensely and have had the honour to work with some of the most talented and committed people currently working in the health sector. I sincerely wish them well for the future.”

Mr Donaghy was appointed Chief Executive in 2010,having begun working in the health service 22 years ago.

He was previously Chief Executive of Southern Health and Social Care Trust, and Northern Health and Social Care Trust.

“Health and Social Care is undergoing tremendous transformational change and Belfast Trust is at the heart of that. The opportunity for Belfast Trust in the future to deliver even better and more innovative services to the people of Belfast and to the regional population is unbounded.

“However, moving to Sussex is an exciting chapter and one that will, no doubt, present me with new challenges - all of which I am looking forward to.”

Peter McNaney, Chairman of the Belfast Trust paid tribute to his dedication over the years.

“Colm has been a tremendous asset to this organisation and has worked diligently to ensure our patients and clients have received the best possible care,” he said. “Colm’s steadfast belief in the ability of our staff and his strong leadership has carried the organisation to its great achievements and through its challenges. We are all deeply indebted to him.’

Health Minister Edwin Poots, said Mr Donaghy had shown “courageous leadership” in the face of major challenges over the years.

“Colm has dedicated his career to date to the health service in Northern Ireland. As Chief Executive of the Belfast Trust since 2010, he has demonstrated courageous leadership as well as energy and resilience in undertaking one of the most challenging roles in Health and Social Care,” said Mr Poots.

“He leaves Northern Ireland with my gratitude and best wishes for the future.”